'augury' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'augurium', where 'augur' referred to an official who observed birds to interpret omens.

'augurium' passed into Middle English (via Old French as 'augurie' / 'augerie') and eventually became the modern English word 'augury' (plural 'auguries').

Initially, it meant 'the practice of interpreting omens (especially by observing birds)', but over time it evolved to include the more general sense of 'an omen or sign' and 'the practice of divination'.